Orphan to Wall Street: The Hidden POWER of ADVERSITY w/ Ed Hajim (E137)

Oct 23, 2025

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Schools often prepare us to make a living, but rarely do they teach us how to make a life. While making a living focuses on earning from what we do, making a life is about the deeper journey of discovering who we are and what truly fulfills us.

In this episode, Brian Bogert sits down with Ed Hajim, a seasoned Wall Street executive with over 50 years of investment experience, respected mentor, philanthropist, and author of On the Road Less Traveled and The Island of the Four Ps.

Ed opens up about his remarkable journey from being an orphan to becoming one of Wall Street’s most respected leaders. He reflects on how his early experiences shaped his identity, strengthened his resilience, and taught him to rise above victimhood. Through his story, Ed reminds us that adversity can become a foundation for growth and purpose when faced with the right mindset.

In the course of the conversation, Ed explores the difference between making a living and building a life, emphasizing that true fulfillment comes not from what we earn, but from discovering who we are. Additionally, he shares his three mantras for living with purpose, the lessons he has learned during his more than 50 years on Wall Street, and the most impactful decision he made during that time.

Finally, Ed discusses his commitment to philanthropy, emphasizing that true success comes from giving back. He believes that true fulfillment comes from using one’s success to create opportunities for others and that giving is not just an act of generosity, but a powerful way to inspire growth and change.

Timestamps:

[00:00] Trailer

[02:28] ‎Who is Ed Hajim?

[06:37] Making a Living vs. Building a Life

[09:31] Three Mantras

[14:38] Access to Education

[22:19] Being an Orphan

[26:21] Crusades & Causes

[37:21] Giving

[42:49] What Ed is Working On

[50:04] Marriage

[58:36] Wall Street